Checking and adjusting camshaft timing with Dial Gauge Indicator

Checking camshaft timing by the manual with dial indicator method? Section 05-215.

Is there a better write up than what is in the repair manual?

They confused me at Step 2 where it says install valve adjustment screw part number 116 050 11 20 on the intake of the 1st and 6 cylinder instead of compensating element. ( I googled the part number 116 050 11 20, that is the compensating element).
Is there a better pictures and description of this process?

Hi Konstatine,

well what it means is that you remove compensation element and install adjustment screw of earlier 8-cyl engines with D-Jetronic instead. Thus you have a fixed point for the rocker that will let you measure opening and closing valve play.

There are also tools for measuring gauges that you insert into ignition spark hole that can do the same.

Is it possible to do on a 86 560SL? It is later M117 with hydraulic compensator element.
I have Dial Gauge Indicator.
Would you have pictures of how to setup Dial Gauge Indicator?

Hi Konstantine,

it is possible after buying screw A1160501120 . That could be costly. I cannot show a picture as I run a 450 SL and not a 560 SL.

Hi Konstantine,

you need to replace the hydraulic compensating element because due to the valve-spring load in TDC-position it would be compressed. It works only when the engine is running and oil pressure is provided.

Is there a special reason why you want to do this check (using this method)?

Regards Martin

I am trying to do this because I have installed new timing chain and sprockets, but my cam indicators are still a little off - they don't align perfectly. I do realize that I am within 5 degrees and that is within factory specification (I think). But since I have bought some woodruff keys and have the dial indicator, I would like to perform this procedure and check exactly where the cams are aligned.

When I align the cam on passenger side in US model (right side), the drivers side goes of the mark by a little bit, and you can see it is about 4 degrees.
Maybe it is negligible, you guys can tell me that is perfectly fine and I could sleep better at night. Don't put woodruff key?

Here are pictures at exactly at TDC ( at 0 degrees):

Konstantin, the cam pics are 0 degree on crankshaft?
Rudiger

In that 2nd posting, they are at 0 degree on crankshaft.

Konstantin 0 degree on crankshaft next to NO offset at the camshaft left and right.
I say as good as it's gets.
Rudiger

Hi Konstantine,

that looks almost perfect... 99%
If you want to improve this to 110% you can install a 6 1/2° woodruff key so the cam on the passenger side comes a bit more in advance.
Because the new chain will have a fast "running in" elongation after abüut 15t miles you will have a perfect and stable timing for teh rest of the engines life.
621 991 04 67 4°
621 991 02 67 6 1/2°
For the passenger side you need two identical keys.

Regards Martin